Fréjus

Fréjus (frāzhüsˈ) [key], town (1990 pop. 42,613), Var dept., SE France. With adjoining Fréjus-Plage, located on the Mediterranean, it is a well-known resort of the French Riviera. Fruits and wines are produced and corks and metals are manufactured. Founded by Julius Caesar in 49 B.C., it was an important Roman naval port. The Argens River has since silted up the harbor, pushing the sea about 3/4 mi (1.2 km) from the city. Many Roman ruins are preserved, notably the oldest surviving arena of Gaul. Also of interest is a cathedral with a 5th-century baptistery. A French military school and army base are at Fréjus.